Snow Camp Lookout
02 reviews29279 Ellensburg Avenue, Gold Beach, OR, 97415, USA
Snow Camp Lookout
$65.00 - $65.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Reservations for the cabin during peak season (June 13 to September 30) are $65 per night. Rates do not reflect additional fees, discounts, or taxes.
About this campground
Perched atop Snow Camp Mountain, this remarkable lookout tower invites adventurers to sleep among the clouds at 4,223 feet. Rising from the ashes of the devastating 2002 Biscuit Fire, the reconstructed lookout stands as a testament to nature's resilience and offers visitors an extraordinary overnight experience with 360-degree views that stretch from forested peaks to the distant Pacific horizon.
Snow Camp Lookout offers a single lodging accommodation in the form of a renovated fire lookout cabin.
Historical SignificanceThis mountaintop sentinel has watched over the Siskiyou wilderness for generations, serving as both guardian and guide. During World War II, vigilant observers scanned these skies for enemy aircraft, adding a chapter of national service to the lookout's story. The Snow Camp Trail beneath your feet follows ancient pathways first traced by indigenous peoples, making every step a journey through centuries of human connection to this landscape.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here tells its own dramatic story, with misty mornings giving way to crystalline afternoons when visibility seems infinite. While winter brings occasional dustings of snow and winds that whisper tales at up to 38 mph, the most magical moments arrive during those perfect weeks when cloud cover retreats, revealing star-filled skies that make you feel like you're camping on the edge of the world. Come prepared for nature's full spectrum – from gentle rains that nourish the recovering forest to those crisp, clear days that reward early risers with unforgettable sunrises.
ElevationAt 4,223 feet, you'll find yourself in a different world where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and summer temperatures offer a refreshing escape from the valleys below. This lofty perch places you above the morning fog banks that fill the valleys like cotton, creating the sensation of floating on an island in the sky while eagles soar at eye level.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your eagle's nest accommodation, the world unfolds in breathtaking panoramas that shift with the light. To the west, catch glimpses of Pacific breakers crashing against Kellogg Beach, while the distinctive silhouettes of Point St. George and Castle Rock punctuate the Crescent City coastline. Surrounding you, a tapestry of forest recovery tells nature's story of rebirth – where emerald meadows meet stands of pine, and wildflowers paint the hillsides each spring.
Geological RegionSnow Camp Mountain rises from the heart of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, a landscape sculpted by fire and time. The surrounding terrain bears witness to nature's power and resilience – from the 2002 Biscuit Fire's transformation to the more recent artistry of the 2017 Chetco Bar Fire. Today, this 4,223-foot summit offers visitors a front-row seat to witness the ongoing dance between destruction and renewal, where blackened snags stand alongside vibrant new growth, and grassy meadows flourish where flames once roared.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVisitors can drive to within sight of the lookout, but a 200-yard hike uphill is required to reach the summit. The hike may be strenuous when carrying gear.
Sites SizeThe lookout structure measures 15' x 15'.
Sites PrivacyThe site offers solitude and panoramic views, emphasizing privacy and quiet.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviewer Kimberly S. recommends bringing a full-sized fitted sheet for the mattress and small, short wood for the stove.
Best CampsitesThe lookout cabin is the sole accommodation and is highly recommendable for its panoramic views and solitude.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time begins at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out time is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit to this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Originally designed for one or two people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe lookout is a single 15 x 15 structure, originally designed for one or two people.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 13 to September 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot mentioned explicitly, null.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with additional fees for late cancellations. Late cancellations for cabins apply starting from midnight 14 calendar days before check-in. Customers will forfeit their first night's use fee in addition to the cancellation fee for late cancellations.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Snow Camp Lookout provides opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, stargazing, and wildlife viewing. It is known for its historic trail system and stunning panoramic views.
Hiking
The Snow Camp Trail is one of the oldest in the Forest and provides access to Windy Valley, a pristine mountain meadow with a small crystal-clear creek.Biking
Mountain biking is popular near the lookout, with trails offering scenic views and moderate difficulty.Wildlife viewing
Guests frequently see deer and bear signs, along with occasional elk signs. "We saw one doe up there, lots of bear sign, and a smidge of elk sign."Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are not mentioned and may be restricted. Guests must pack out all garbage and food.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include steep terrain requiring higher clearance vehicles and signs of bear activity. The effects of past fires (2002 Biscuit Fire, 2017 Chetco Bar Fire) still impact the area.
Active alertsAccess is currently restricted from the south due to the Chetco Bar Fire closure area.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services include the Gold Beach Ranger District office (541-247-3600) and medical facilities in Gold Beach.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 13 to September 30.
Trash and recyclingAll garbage and food must be packed out by visitors.
Proximity to water featuresOn clear days, views can include ocean waves near Crescent City, CA.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention the porta-potty conditions ('horrific' according to Sierra B.), strong winds, and cloud cover obscuring views.
HostGold Beach Ranger District manages the facility. They can be contacted at 541-247-3600.
Campground Map
29279 Ellensburg Avenue, Gold Beach, OR, 97415, USA
Driving directionsFrom Portland take I-5 South to OR-38 East to US-101 South to Gold Beach. From US-101 in Gold Beach, turn onto Jerry’s Flat Road. In 9.8 miles, this becomes Forest Road (FS) 33. Continue on FS-33 for an additional 3.2 miles, then turn right onto FS-3313. In 8.2 miles, turn left on FS-3680. Continue on FS-3680 for 6.7 miles to the lookout site. Although visitors can drive to within sight of the lookout, the 200-yard hike to the summit can be strenuous when carrying gear. A wheelbarrow is provided for convenience. Snow Camp lookout is currently inaccessible from the south due to the Chetco Bar Fire closure area.
Road access can be challenging as the final 200 yards to the lookout can only be reached by foot (administrative traffic is allowed). While visitors can drive close, the steep terrain may require higher clearance vehicles, as noted by user reviews. "The hill is steep but drivable if you’re confident and your vehicle is higher clearance," wrote reviewer Kimberly S.Nearby places
Gold Beach (approx. 28 miles, 45 minutes), Brookings (approx. 35 miles, 1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Gold Beach, including groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Snow Camp Lookout has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the lookout’s stunning views, unique cabin experience, and opportunities for activities like stargazing and wildlife viewing. However, they note issues such as strong winds and a poorly maintained pit toilet.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests appreciate the panoramic views, solitude, and historic significance of the site. The wood-burning stove and cabin furnishings are also praised.
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include the poorly maintained pit toilet, strong winds causing discomfort, and the cabin door needing a deadbolt to stay closed.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing a full-sized fitted sheet for the mattress, downloading maps before arrival due to inconsistent signage, and preparing short wood pieces for the stove.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews note strong winds and occasional cloud cover obscuring the views. Winter data suggests cold temperatures and high precipitation chances, which could affect usability.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The port-o-potty was horrific when we went, but I’ve heard rumors that it’s been recently cleaned." "At first the lookout was awesome, and we had no wind. But once nightfall hit, the wind never...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews mention campsite C1 in AREA SNOW CAMP LOOKOUT, with mixed experiences regarding weather and amenities.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews note that while visitors can drive close to the site, the final 200-yard hike uphill can be strenuous, especially when carrying gear.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome at the lookout, and reviews do not mention significant issues related to bringing pets.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025